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5 keys to take care of your mental health during the pandemic 2:56
(CNN) - People across the United States are trying to cope with this new life during a pandemic. Many deal with health problems, unemployment, anxiety and uncertainty about the future.
The Disaster Hotline - a federal crisis management hotline, known in English as the Disaster Distress Helpline - has recently seen a huge increase in calls from people seeking help. The hotline, led by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMSHA), provides advice to people facing emotional problems during times of natural or man-made disasters.
Individuals may contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990.
In March, the helpline had a 338% increase in call volume compared to February, an agency spokesperson said. And compared to March last year the increase was 891% in calls.
The pandemic has disrupted daily routines and has caused people to be in isolation, while staying home to slow the spread of the virus. During a recent press conference, President Donald Trump addressed the mental health crisis, noting that it is a big problem and that people are suffering.
American workers have suffered devastating job losses: Last week another 6.6 million people applied for unemployment financial assistance. The coronavirus has claimed more than 16,000 lives in the country, leaving families grieving and unable to reunite due to social distancing measures.
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"Stress, anxiety and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster," the program's website read.
The Helpline is a free resource that offers advice and support to anyone with emotional problems due to a disaster. They can give advice on how to deal with the situation and offer information on how to detect signs of distress in friends and family. Crisis counselors can also refer callers to local crisis centers for follow-up care.
The helpline was launched in 2012 and has provided assistance to residents during disasters such as hurricanes, mass shootings, forest fires and now the coronavirus pandemic.
How do you know that you are suffering from a mental disorder? 3:15The staff is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Individuals can call 1-800-989-5990, or even text TalkWithUs at 66746, to be transferred to a qualified counselor.
People seeking help can remain anonymous and can call for themselves or someone else. Anyone is encouraged to use the helpline, including disaster survivors, loved ones of victims, first responders, rescue, recovery and relief workers, clergy and parents and caregivers, according to the program's website.
